Effortless Flavor: Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipes

Lemon pepper chicken is a classic dish loved for its bright, zesty, and savory flavors. But sometimes, you want that deliciousness without spending a lot of time in the kitchen. That’s where the slow cooker comes to the rescue! This article will guide you through several mouthwatering slow cooker lemon pepper chicken recipes, from simple weeknight dinners to more elaborate variations perfect for entertaining. Get ready to enjoy tender, flavorful chicken with minimal effort!

## Why Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken?

Before diving into the recipes, let’s explore why the slow cooker is the perfect tool for making lemon pepper chicken:

* **Effortless Cooking:** Simply toss the ingredients in, set the timer, and forget about it! The slow cooker does all the work.
* **Tender and Juicy Chicken:** The slow, gentle cooking process ensures the chicken stays incredibly moist and tender, preventing it from drying out.
* **Deep Flavor Infusion:** The prolonged cooking time allows the lemon pepper seasoning to deeply penetrate the chicken, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
* **Convenience:** Perfect for busy weeknights. You can prep the ingredients in the morning and come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal.
* **Versatility:** Adaptable to different cuts of chicken and a wide range of flavor combinations.

## Basic Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken

This is a simple yet incredibly flavorful recipe that’s perfect for beginners. It requires minimal ingredients and is a great starting point for exploring other variations.

**Ingredients:**

* 1. 5-2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
* 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/2 cup chicken broth
* 1 lemon, sliced (optional, for extra lemon flavor)
* 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Chicken:** If using chicken breasts, you can cut them into smaller, more manageable pieces. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
2. **Season the Chicken:** In a bowl, toss the chicken with lemon pepper seasoning and olive oil. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated.
3. **Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:** Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the slow cooker. This will help to keep the chicken moist and prevent it from sticking. Add minced garlic if desired.
4. **Add the Chicken and Lemon:** Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker in a single layer. If using lemon slices, arrange them on top of the chicken.
5. **Cook on Low:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker and the thickness of the chicken.
6. **Check for Doneness:** The chicken is done when it’s easily shredded with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. **Shred and Serve:** Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

**Serving Suggestions:**

* Serve over rice, quinoa, or couscous.
* Use it in salads or wraps.
* Make lemon pepper chicken sandwiches.
* Serve with roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans.

## Creamy Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken

For a richer and more decadent version, try adding cream cheese to the slow cooker. This creates a creamy sauce that’s perfect for serving over pasta or mashed potatoes.

**Ingredients:**

* 1. 5-2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
* 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/2 cup chicken broth
* 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare and Season the Chicken:** Follow steps 1 and 2 from the basic recipe.
2. **Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:** Follow step 3 from the basic recipe, adding minced garlic if desired.
3. **Add the Chicken:** Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker in a single layer.
4. **Cook on Low:** Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
5. **Add Cream Cheese:** During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the softened cream cheese until it’s completely melted and incorporated into the sauce. If you want a smoother sauce, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and use an immersion blender to blend the sauce until smooth. Then return the chicken to the slow cooker.
6. **Check for Doneness:** The chicken is done when it’s easily shredded with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. **Shred and Serve:** Shred the chicken with two forks. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

**Serving Suggestions:**

* Serve over pasta, such as fettuccine or spaghetti.
* Serve over mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash.
* Serve with a side of steamed vegetables.
* Serve over rice or quinoa.

## Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken with Vegetables

Make it a complete meal by adding your favorite vegetables to the slow cooker. This is a great way to sneak in extra nutrients and simplify your dinner preparation.

**Ingredients:**

* 1. 5-2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
* 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 cup chicken broth
* 1 pound baby potatoes, halved or quartered
* 1 pound carrots, peeled and chopped
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare and Season the Chicken:** Follow steps 1 and 2 from the basic recipe.
2. **Layer the Vegetables in the Slow Cooker:** Place the potatoes, carrots, and onion in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add minced garlic if desired.
3. **Add the Chicken:** Place the seasoned chicken on top of the vegetables.
4. **Pour in the Broth:** Pour the chicken broth over the chicken and vegetables.
5. **Cook on Low:** Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
6. **Check for Doneness:** The chicken is done when it’s easily shredded with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The vegetables should be tender.
7. **Serve:** Serve the chicken and vegetables directly from the slow cooker.

**Serving Suggestions:**

* Serve as a complete meal on its own.
* Serve with a side salad.
* Serve with crusty bread for soaking up the delicious broth.

## Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken Thighs with Roasted Asparagus

Using chicken thighs will render an incredibly juicy and flavourful result, this recipe pairs it with fresh asparagus for a complete meal.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
* 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
* 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
* 1/2 cup chicken broth
* 1 lemon, sliced
* 1 pound asparagus, trimmed
* 1 tablespoon grated parmesan cheese (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare and Season the Chicken:** Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a bowl, toss the chicken with lemon pepper seasoning and 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. **Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:** Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the slow cooker. Arrange lemon slices on top of the broth.
3. **Add the Chicken:** Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the slow cooker in a single layer.
4. **Cook on Low:** Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be very tender and easily pull apart.
5. **Prepare the Asparagus:** About 30 minutes before the chicken is done, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the trimmed asparagus with the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the asparagus in a single layer on a baking sheet.
6. **Roast the Asparagus:** Roast the asparagus in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
7. **Serve:** Remove the chicken thighs from the slow cooker and place them on a serving platter. Spoon some of the cooking liquid over the chicken. Sprinkle parmesan cheese over the asparagus, if using. Serve the roasted asparagus alongside the chicken thighs.

## Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken with Artichoke Hearts and Olives

This Mediterranean-inspired version adds artichoke hearts and olives for a burst of flavor and texture. The briny olives and tangy artichoke hearts complement the lemon pepper perfectly.

**Ingredients:**

* 1. 5-2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
* 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1/2 cup chicken broth
* 1 (14-ounce) can artichoke hearts, quartered
* 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
* 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh oregano (optional, for garnish)

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare and Season the Chicken:** Follow steps 1 and 2 from the basic recipe.
2. **Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker:** Pour the chicken broth into the bottom of the slow cooker. Add minced garlic if desired.
3. **Add the Chicken, Artichoke Hearts, and Olives:** Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker in a single layer. Scatter the artichoke hearts and olives over the chicken.
4. **Cook on Low:** Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
5. **Check for Doneness:** The chicken is done when it’s easily shredded with a fork and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. **Serve:** Serve the chicken, artichoke hearts, and olives directly from the slow cooker. Garnish with fresh oregano if desired.

**Serving Suggestions:**

* Serve over rice, couscous, or quinoa.
* Serve with a side of crusty bread for soaking up the sauce.
* Serve with a Greek salad.

## Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Lemon Pepper Chicken

* **Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker:** Overcrowding can prevent the chicken from cooking evenly. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches.
* **Don’t Lift the Lid Too Often:** Lifting the lid releases heat and moisture, which can prolong the cooking time. Try to resist the urge to peek until the chicken is almost done.
* **Adjust the Lemon Pepper Seasoning to Your Taste:** Some lemon pepper seasonings are more potent than others. Start with less and add more to taste.
* **Use Fresh Lemon Juice:** For the brightest lemon flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
* **Sear the Chicken First (Optional):** For added flavor and texture, you can sear the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. This will create a nice crust on the outside of the chicken.
* **Thicken the Sauce (Optional):** If you want a thicker sauce, you can whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, you can remove some of the liquid from the slow cooker and reduce it in a saucepan over medium heat until it thickens.
* **Choose the Right Cut of Chicken:** Both chicken breasts and thighs work well in the slow cooker. Chicken thighs tend to be more flavorful and juicy, while chicken breasts are leaner.
* **Salt Accordingly:** Lemon pepper seasoning often contains salt. Taste the chicken after cooking and add more salt if needed.

## Variations and Add-Ins

* **Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano.
* **Spices:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
* **Vegetables:** Add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
* **Wine:** Substitute some of the chicken broth with white wine for a more complex flavor.
* **Honey or Maple Syrup:** Add a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity of the lemon.
* **Dijon Mustard:** Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy flavor.

## Slow Cooker Safety Tips

* Always make sure the chicken is fully thawed before cooking.
* Do not fill the slow cooker more than two-thirds full.
* Use a food thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
* Do not leave the slow cooker unattended for extended periods of time.

## Conclusion

Slow cooker lemon pepper chicken is a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With these recipes and tips, you can easily create flavorful, tender, and juicy chicken with minimal effort. So, get out your slow cooker and start experimenting with different variations to find your perfect lemon pepper chicken recipe! Enjoy!